2005 Runway Gucci Red Silk Backless Dress with Chiffon Inserts
This extremely sexy silk dress walked the runway as part of Gucci’s Spring 2005 collection (look 31/41). The first collection after Tom Ford’s departure, the design does not veer too far from his high-octane, provocative formula. It was also seen on actor Marcia Cross in a promotional shoot for Desperate Housewives. Tailored from smooth silk in the juiciest dark raspberry hue, the front has a curve-skimming fit and is detailed with cut-out panels of sheer raspberry silk around the ribcage where the boning of a corset would sit. The bust is padded and underwired, adorned with a twisting, draped layer of silk. It is held up by two thick straps; both cut to a dramatic angular shape and detailed with panels of sheer silk. These straps are held together by a silk-covered elastic strap at the back of the neck. The dress is designed to look like a corset at the front with sheer silk panels taking the place of the boning.
The skirt has a drop waist and is adorned with a top layer of tonal matte silk, draped and sewn into place so that it twists around the hips. There is a slit in each side of the skirt and from each of these slits hangs dark burgundy tassels and a feather - a subtle Gucci nod to the bohemian trend that was swarming the runways in the mid 2000s. The back of the dress is very sensuous; it is cut very low and completely open, aside from four ruched silk-covered elastic straps across the back. This dress fastens across the back with hook-and-eye clasps and snap closures. It has a hidden tonal zip on the left hip with a logo-debossed zip pull. The dress is fully lined in matte raspberry silk.
This archival dress is in excellent vintage condition with no issues. It is labelled an Italian size 42, UK 10 or US 6. It is 85% Silk, 15% Elastane. The model in the photographs is 5' 7" and a size UK 6-8, US 2-4. Our house model has also tried this on; she is a UK size 8-10, US 4-6 and it fits her comfortably.
MEASUREMENTS
BUST - 32 in. (81 cm)
WAIST - 30 in. (76 cm)
HIP - 36 in. (91 cm)
LENGTH - 40 in. (102 cm)
Pickup available at CIRCA VINTAGE
Usually ready in 24 hours
F.A.Q.
Will you set anything aside for me before I come?
We are happy to find anything you may be interested in from our website - please let us know a week in advance.
We also have an extensive offline collection. If you let us know your size, style, favourite colour to wear and perhaps your budget, we can browse through our archive in advance of your appointment.
Do I need to bring anything with me?
Clients may wish to bring modern shapewear when trying on garments from certain eras, especially the 1950s. Vintage clothing was often worn with undergarments that shaped the waist and as such is tailored for them.
We have a huge variety of slip dresses and petticoats to complete your look; many of which are also for sale.
You may also wish to bring your favourite footwear. We often find a classic pair of nude shoes work well when trying on, or a pair in gold or silver.
Do you have a price range?
Many of our lower-priced pieces (under £150) are not available to buy online. Our prices range from £80 - £600 for separates. Dresses start at around £150 and go up to £2,500 for the very best antique pieces and designer vintage. Our bridalwear ranges from £300 - £3,000.
Can I bring anyone with me?
Yes but please do let us know the size of your party in advance.
Where can I get alterations?
We offer some alterations in house. Should you need alterations we cannot provide, we can refer you to one of our tried and trusted tailors.
Do you have an after-care service?
We will advise you on the best way to clean and preserve your vintage pieces and can also recommend trusted local dry cleaners.
Can I cancel my appointment?
You are free to cancel but please do give us as much notice as possible. If you cancel less than 24 hours before your appointment, you will be invoiced a late cancellation fee of £25.
Where's the showroom?
Our address is Circa Vintage, 87A Lansdowne Way London SW8 2PB
Upon arrival, buzz the 87A button on the gate or call us 020 7736 5038 to let you in.
Do you have parking?
We offer free, secure, off-street parking but it is a tight squeeze – so do let us know in advance if you will be needing this and we can make sure that there is space available.
How do I get there by public transport?
Underground:
Stockwell (7 min walk) - Northern and Victoria Lines
Nine Elms (9 min walk) – Northern Line
Overground:
Wandsworth Road (13 min walk) – Westbound to Clapham Junction / Eastbound to Dalston Junction
What payment methods do you accept?
Cash, credit/debit card, bank transfer, contactless, Paypal